A method is described for the calculation of momentum distributions and Compton profiles of polyatomic molecules. Distributions, profiles and momentum expectation values are calculated for the boron hydrides B2R 6, B4Rlo, BoRg, BoRn, and B6RlO. Contour maps of total and difference densities in momentum space are presented for diborane. The results are analyzed in terms of localized orbitals. The analysis shows that traditional concepts of two-and three-center electron pair bonds may find great utility in interpreting momentum space distribntions.This article is copyrighted as indicated in the article. Reuse of AIP content is subject to the terms at: http://scitation.aip.org/termsconditions. Downloaded to IP: 155.33.120.209 On: Wed, 03 Dec 2014 16:30:31 1. R. EPSTEIN AND W. N. LIPSCOMB